What is the primary purpose of electronic fetal monitoring (EFM)?

The primary purpose of electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) is to evaluate fetal well-being. This method provides continuous assessment of the fetal heart rate (FHR) in conjunction with uterine contractions, which helps healthcare providers identify potential signs of fetal distress or abnormal fetal conditions.

By evaluating the FHR patterns, practitioners can determine if the fetus is reacting appropriately to stimuli, such as contractions, and can monitor for signs indicative of hypoxia or other complications. This continuous evaluation allows for timely interventions if any abnormalities are detected, ensuring better outcomes for both the fetus and the mother during labor and delivery.

Monitoring maternal heart rate or measuring uterine contractions, though important aspects of the overall assessment in obstetric care, are secondary to the primary goal of EFM, which is centered around the fetus's health status. Similarly, while assessing fetal movement patterns can provide useful information about fetal well-being, EFM specifically targets the continuous monitoring of heart rate in relation to the labor experience, making it a critical tool in evaluating and safeguarding fetal health during the perinatal period.